Network Rail has begun the third stage of works on the creation of the new Mid Cornwall Metro (MCM) scheme, which will see a doubling of trains running between Newquay and Par.

Construction, which is primarily being carried out overnight, has now begun on a 400m passing loop at Goss Moor, with Network Rail having been granted permission to work around the Goss Moor National Nature Reserve.

The loop will allow both long-distance and local trains to run concurrently with services between Newquay and Par.

Works set to be completed also include the replacement of 400m of track near St Blazey, as well as renovations on the Points Mill (Prideaux) viaduct over River Par.

Network Rail Industry Programme Director, Bogdan Lupu, said:

We’ve made great progress so far to bring Mid Cornwall Metro to life and this next phase will take us even closer.

Our work will bring more trains to Newquay, improve the environment and boost the local economy.

In order to carry out a core period of construction, the railway will see a temporary closure between Monday 24 February and Sunday 23 March.

During the closure, there will be no service between Newquay and Par, with rail replacement buses set to run between St Austell to Newquay, calling at Luxulyan, Bugle, Roche, St Columb Road and Quintrell Downs.

GWR Head of Strategic Service Development, Matthew Barnes, said:

We welcome the steady progress being made to deliver this scheme. These upgrades will make the track improvements necessary for us to provide more, and better, services.

This paves the way for us to run our first Mid Cornwall Metro trains which will provide coast-to-coast connectivity between Newquay and Falmouth via Par and St Austell.

Once the infrastructure works and operational preparations are complete, the first step will see us double frequency on the line between Newquay and Par, followed by the start of coast-to-coast services at a later date.

Work has already been completed on two major pieces of the MCM network, with a second platform restored at Newquay Station as well as 500m of new track installed in order to reach it, alongside a new crossing to facilitate traffic.

Platform work being carried out at Newquay train station

© Network Rail

Once complete, the MCM, which has been designed by AECOM, will see trains run hourly between Newquay and Par, with through trains from Newquay to Falmouth, via Par, St Austell and Truro all set to follow in 2026.

The increase in service was initially forecasted to be operational Summer 2025, but due to delays will now begin later in the year.

As part of the project, improvements are also being made to both walking and cycling routes surrounding train stations in the area.

Councillor Connor Donnithorne, Cornwall Council Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transport, said:

Mid Cornwall Metro is the biggest investment into public transport in Cornwall for 30 years. It underlines our commitment to provide a thriving and sustainable Cornwall, fit for the modern world, for the benefit our residents.

Improving public spaces and accessibility on the roads and public spaces around the stations brings many benefits. Improving the ‘first and last mile’ makes it easier for people to make the choice to walk, cycle or catch the bus to their local station, rather than driving and adding to congestion on our roads.

It also benefits those in the community who may not need to travel by train, and instead are travelling within their town or village. People are more likely to walk or cycle if they feel safe to do so.

And there’s lots of research showing the value of the ‘pedestrian pound’ and how attractive, connected public spaces increase dwell time in local shops and businesses.

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